Trump honors Gary Player months ahead of golf legend's 90th birthday
President Trump had golf legend Gary Player on his mind Tuesday, following reports that the 89-year-old retired athlete hit the links in Scotland this week.
Player, who turns 90 in November, is one of only six professional golfers who has won a career grand slam by winning all four modern majors. The historic Irvine Golf Club in Scotland posted photos on social media of the South African golfer's trip there Tuesday, and the Irvine Times published a glowing article about his visit, noting that he's expected to attend the Genesis Scottish Open this week.
"The great Gary Player, winner of over 150 golf tournaments, and 9 Majors, plus many tournaments and Majors on the Senior Tour," Trump posted on his Truth Social site Tuesday evening along with a photo of himself and Player on a golf course. "Based on his incredible record, only Tiger and Jack, two truly incredible champions, would be in his way."
Trump also noted Player's upcoming birthday milestone.
"A big birthday is coming up for Gary, but I won’t say which one, because he seems like, and plays, 30 years younger," the president wrote. "HE IS A VERY SPECIAL MAN!!!"
The president played a round of golf against Player's grandson at Trump International Golf Course in March, and the golf legend was there.
"Gary Player's grandson was defeated by the president of the United States today," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters at the time.
Trump posted the same photo with Player and praised the golfer in a Truth Social post last July.